"Nukila Evanty: Convey the health impacts for marginalized communities and importance of clean energy commitments for policy makers" 7 May 2025

Since 2016, residents of Teluk Sepang, a subdistrict in the city of Bengkulu, have been fighting an uphill battle, dealing with the construction of the Teluk Sepang coal-fired power plant (PLTU).

The plant is operated by PT Tenaga Listrik Bengkulu (TLB), a joint venture between PowerChina Resources and PT Intraco Penta (INTA). While the project is intended to boost electricity supply in the region (2×100 MW), many believe that it poses greater detrimental impacts to the community.

Funded by China Eximbank and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), the plant boasts a total investment of around IDR 1.8 trillion (roughly USD 112 million).
A four-month study conducted by Indigenous Peoples’ Initiatives (IMA) identified two major areas of impact on the local community: environmental and health concerns and socioeconomic disruption. 

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Plant operations are suspected to have polluted the air, water and soil. Power plant waste has contaminated water sources, while gas emissions, such as CO2, SO2 and NO2, have degraded air quality, which could lead to acid rain.

Residents have also reported a spike in respiratory infections and skin diseases...

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The negative impact is also seen in the deteriorating marine ecosystems, including the deaths of 28 hawksbill sea turtles and widespread coral reef damage.

In terms of socioeconomic aspect, the PLTU construction has displaced 14 farmers from their land and disrupted local fisheries, due to coastal pollution. 

Some locals employed at the plant or in coal stockpiles—including women—have to endure poor working conditions for a mere pittance of IDR 50,000 per day (just over USD 3). Many workers have also reported health issues, but they did not receive proper medical treatment.

Another issue is the high-voltage transmission lines that cut through residential areas, damaging household electronics and raising concerns about electrical hazards...

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IMA also emphasized the need for long-term and sustainable health services for affected communities, including regular checkups for respiratory and skin conditions and special support for women and children.

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Nukila also stressed the urgency of promoting clean energy alternatives so that local communities are no longer victims of dirty energy, such as coal-fired power.

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